Heard most people prefer to hike the loop counter-clockwise so we did so. We took lots of photos and almost 3 hours to come back to the parking lot. A park ranger told me this is the most popular trail in Chricahua National Monument.

One of the world’s most beautiful places. So lucky to have gotten a permit. Went in mid February and it was absolutely beautiful. The hike is relatively easy except for making it the last mile up on your way back.

Pack a lot of water and high energy foods (protein bars, etc.) as you’ll need it on the way out!

This is becoming one of my favorite hikes in the area. The trail has many picturesque points. It is on the easy side of moderate and great for the young hikers as the trails grade is easy with the exception of one wash crossing late in the trail. The first quarter is hard on the feet as the trail has a lot of jagged rock so be prepared to wear appropriate shows. The trail is narrow in many spots. It has a lot of diversity in vegetation which adds to the enjoyment. At the trailhead immediately after the signage the trail appears to split. Take the left fork as the right is only a false path. At the end the trail splits again with 2 forks about 1/4 mile long. One goes out to a point for great lake and mtn views. The other crosses over a ridge down the water's edge. Both are dead ends. A little over half way there is a trail that leads down to the water and a small shoreline campsite. Great spot for lunch or a snack break.

Five star view, four star from me for being more like a hard/moderate blend. If you like scrambling, it’s really fun on the way up and really less fun on the way down. If you are not experienced, you’re gonna be like the guy behind me today who kept slipping and freaking out. This hike is not for you.

Did solo this morning - sunrise was around 7:10 am. Worth it for early birds because the parking lots is empty too!

Don’t use the maps on AllTrails like ever. Use your Google machine and search Echo Canyon Rec Area and you will get right to the parking area. Last time I went up Echo and down Cholla and to me that is preferred. But for sunrise Cholla might be the better way to go up!

My husband really enjoyed this hike. Going through the canyon was awesome. I would suggest doing it before the temperature is above 70. We came out at a cool 65, yet had to take layers down to a t-shirt. bring water, you can hike over to a bathroom at the lake, not too far. Very enjoyable.